August 21 is celebrated as Senior Citizens Day in the world to highlight the importance of caring of elderly citizens and helping them live with dignity. As the body ages, it becomes prone to medical conditions. Ageing cannot be prevented, but we can learn how to deal with rising conditions for the great health of our loved ones. Most health concerns for the elderly are memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease among others. Discussed below are an understanding of elderly care and tips to make parent care, at home more manageable.
Let’s go through a few tips for geriatric or elderly care so that the main caregiver aka family member does not feel burdened:-
Have a support system:
If you are unable to spend enough time due to work commitments, scout for a professional elder care service. A lot of home care services provide basic to essential support such as shopping for daily groceries, cooking, laundry, exercise, visits to the doctors, etc.
Periodic visits to the doctor:
It is crucial to carry details of their medical history, current medication, and dosage. Help your parents to understand their medicines along with recommended changes in their diet.
Exercise and healthy diet:
It is a good idea to accompany your parents for morning and evening walks. It will not only make them feel refreshed but would also serve as an opportunity for you to spend some time together. Paying attention to diet is equally important. Quite often, they are unable to consume much at their age, due to indigestion hence it is important to feed them a nutritious and healthy meal.
Keep a nursing attendant:
Taking in a nursing attendant is a vital aspect of caring for the elderly. It is a helpful arrangement since your parent will enjoy his /her family’s compassion at home and still have an aide around to take care of the health issues. In case any health condition gets worse, the professional is able to alert the concerned doctor early.
Ensure fall-prevention:
Falls have been associated with most non-fatal and fatal injuries for elders. Falls lead to many physical health problems in an ageing body. Some medicines may increase falling risks. Keep a check that your parents wear sensible shoes and ensure that your home is well organized at all times. The floor should always remain dry. Make use of non-slip mats and rugs to avoid any slips.
Encourage physical activity:
Exercising can go a long way in helping your ageing parent remain healthy and fit. With a doctor’s approval, let the caregiver supervise the light workouts, physiotherapy, walking or yoga. Physical activity will boost mood, organ functionality, and strength. It helps minimize the risk of falling with improved flexibility, balance, and coordination.
Elder Proof Your Home:
Specialists recommend elder proof of your house. It is one of the most neglected aspects when it comes to caring for the elderly. Some helpful tools are fire alarms, medication management kits, mobility devices, meal delivery services and grab bars.
Caring of elderly requires proactiveness and compassion. Correctly looking after your ageing parent means providing the most compassionate elderly care solutions. These helpful tips along with showing love, care and compassion towards your ageing parents can enhance their longevity and quality of life.